Growing Back-To-School Lists, Shrinking Budgets

(Schoolkids board the bus home outside McCall Elementary School in center city Philadelphia. Credit: Mike DeNardo)

By Kim Glovas

CHERRY HILL, NJ (CBS) – Although school starts very soon for most college and high school students, many are still out filling those “back to school” shopping lists.

Arianne was shopping for her 9-year-old daughter at the Cherry Hill Mall. She says she’s pretty much done.

“Just some sweats, something that’s going to stretch my money, you know, use it a few more times. That’s all.”

Reporter: “Are you done with your school shopping?”

Arianne: “I’m done. I did a lot online.”

She says it did cost more this year.

“Because they’re getting older and everything costs more.”

Another mom, of two sons, says she made her cash go farther another way.

“We did outlet shopping, so I’ve been okay. We were away on vacation so we did some outlet shopping. I haven’t done too much more than that though. I’ve avoiding — I’m waiting for my paycheck.”

Kate and her 15-year-old son Will were out shopping for school clothes.

“We’re actually buying khaki pants and a blue blazer. Because where he’s going to high school, he has a uniform. It’s actually much easier, just a matter of finding the clothes that fit. You know, he’s in the middle of a growth spurt, so I’m trying to be practical and at the same time get him dressed appropriately for school.”

Another mom says the overall cost is still up.

“They seem to ask for a lot more every year. And if they used everything they ask for, I’d be okay with it. In our particular school system, they’re not using. Things are coming home not even touched. Sneakers, my children are getting older and they are very specific with what they want, so yes, I am spending more.”

As for school supplies, many parents are waiting to see teachers’ lists before buying those.